The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Bauchi State Accountant General, Sirajo Jaja, before Justice O.A. Egwuatu in Abuja. The trial is taking place at the Federal High Court, Maitama, over alleged fraud.
EFCC confirmed Jaja’s arraignment in an official statement. He appeared with bureau de change operator Aliyu Abubakar and his company, Jasfad Resources Enterprise.
Others named in the case but not yet in custody include former Secretary to the State Government, Ibrahim Kashim, and the current SSG, Aminu Hammayo. Saleh U. Mohammed and Balarabe Abdullahi are also listed.
The defendants face nine counts. The charges involve money laundering, diversion of public funds, and criminal misappropriation. The amount involved totals ₦8,380,626,430.95.
One charge alleges Aliyu Abubakar, Jasfad Resources Enterprise, and Ibrahim Kashim moved ₦2,808,595,100.00 illegally between January 5 and December 10, 2024. They allegedly transferred this from the Bauchi State Expenditure Account (UBA 1022197086) into Jasfad’s account (UBA 1023444660).
The court noted this violated Section 18(2)(b) and is punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The accused pleaded not guilty. The prosecution counsel, Abba Mohammed (SAN), asked for a trial date and requested their remand.
Defense counsel Mohammed Ndayako (SAN) and Chris Uche (SAN) filed bail applications. Uche argued that the Accountant General plays a vital role in the state’s finances and is on administrative bail.
He asked the court to release him on self-recognition or to the Attorney General of Bauchi State, who will ensure his court appearance.
The prosecution objected. They said the first defendant earlier violated administrative bail and claimed the third defendant, residing outside Abuja, posed a flight risk.
Related News:
EFCC detains 13 alleged internet scammers in Uyo
EFCC charges four with N50m fraud in Borno
They submitted a 17-paragraph counter-affidavit on April 4, 2025, deposed by Ogundana Peter Kolawole. A written address supported the submission.
The prosecution asked the court to deny bail. After hearing arguments, Justice Egwuatu granted bail to all three defendants.
Each received bail of ₦200 million. Each must present two sureties in like sum. One surety must be a federal employee, Grade Level 17 or above.
Sureties must live in Abuja and provide evidence of tax payment for the past three years. The defendants must also deposit their international passports with the court registrar.
Pending full compliance with bail conditions, the court released the Accountant General to the Attorney General of Bauchi State, Hassan L. Yakubu (SAN).
Sirajo Jaja was remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja. The court adjourned the matter to June 17, 2025, for trial commencement.
Read More: Diaspora Lens
